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New York Rangers: Early similarities and differences

By Jake Mozarsky

Oct 23, 2021; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; New York Rangers center Barclay Goodrow (20) scores against Ottawa Senators goalie Matt Murray (30) in the third period at the Canadian Tire Centre. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 23, 2021; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; New York Rangers center Barclay Goodrow (20) scores against Ottawa Senators goalie Matt Murray (30) in the third period at the Canadian Tire Centre. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 23, 2021; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; New York Rangers left wing Sammy Blais (91) fights with Ottawa Senators let wing Nick Paul (21) in the third period at the Canadian Tire Centre. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 23, 2021; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; New York Rangers left wing Sammy Blais (91) fights with Ottawa Senators let wing Nick Paul (21) in the third period at the Canadian Tire Centre. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-USA TODAY Sports /

The Rangers are different and we know that. Here’s four things noticed early in the season

1. They definitely are tougher

Chris Drury went into the off-season looking to make the team tougher and he definitely did that with the acquisitions of Barclay Goodrow, Ryan Reaves, Dryden Hunt and Sammy Blais. These players have all contributed to New York looking more physical on the ice, and early on they do not look as soft as they did last year.

2. Chris Kreider

Chris Kreider has started fast. Unlike in other seasons, the Rangers forward is off to a quick goal-scoring start, with four goals in seven games. Kreider has been a force on the power-play and has looked more threatening in even strength. Kreider can be inconsistent, but this fast start is encouraging for him.

3. Jacob Trouba and K’Andre Miller

This defensive pair has been much better to start the season, and they are quietly forming a lockdown pair for New York. Trouba and Miller were both mistake-prone last year, but if they can continue this good play they will be more and more effective for New York.

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